Size: The white wagtail is a slender bird, 16.5 to 19 cm in length. Its average weight is 25 g.

Vocalisations: The call of the white wagtail is a sharp chisick, slightly softer than the version given by the pied wagtail.

Habitat: White wagtails are usually seen alone or in pairs, but during migration, they often gather in flocks at good feeding areas or to roost at night. These birds feed by day on the ground or on the wing.

Behaviour: White wagtails are usually seen alone or in pairs, but during migration, they often gather in flocks at good feeding areas or to roost at night. These birds feed by day on the ground or on the wing. White wagtails are carnivores (insectivores). Terrestrial and aquatic insects and other small invertebrates form the major part of their diet. These include beetles, dragonflies, small snails, spiders, worms, crustaceans, to maggots found in carcasses, and, most importantly, flies.

Interesting facts: White wagtails are monogamous; they form pairs and defend their breeding territories. The nest is a rough cup assembled from twigs, grass, leaves, and other plant matter. It is lined with soft materials, including animal hair. The nest is set into a crevice or hole - traditionally in a bank next to a river or ditch - but White wagtails have also adapted to nesting in walls, bridges, and buildings. The female lays 3 to 8 cream-colored eggs. The white wagtail was recognised as Latvia’s national bird in 1969 in Tokyo, by the International Council for Bird Preservation.

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